Campaign finance bill passes House

CAMPAIGN FINANCE BILL PASSES HOUSE
League of Women Voters Applauds DISCLOSE Act, Restored Transparency in Elections

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The League of Women Voters today hailed the passage of campaign finance legislation by the U.S. House of Representatives as the first step in achieving greater transparency in U.S. elections.

“Secret spending in elections undermines our democracy -- that’s why this bill is so important,” said Elisabeth MacNamara, national president of the League of Women Voters.

“The League of Women Voters commends the House for taking strong action, especially Representatives Van Hollen and Castle for their leadership. We now call on the Senate to pass a similar bill, ideally a version free of amendments that dilute transparency or corrupt the spirit of the legislation,” she stated.  “It is essential for Congress to enact this legislation now, so we can protect the 2010 elections,” MacNamara said.

The DISCLOSE Act received support from a host of reform groups including the League, and today, Speaker Nancy Pelosi acknowledged the League and coalition groups for their efforts in helping to pass this legislation.

“This bill is a step in the right direction and achieves its fundamental purpose,” MacNamara said.  “The League will continue to fight for enhanced disclosure, and this bill is an important part of that fight.  It’s the best campaign finance reform since McCain-Feingold,” she concluded.

The Supreme Court in Citizens United v. FEC recently gave the green light to corporations to spend without limit to elect or oppose candidates for office. However, the Court’s decision made clear that disclosure of this spending could be required by Congress.

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The League of Women Voters, a nonpartisan political organization, encourages informed and active participation in government, works to increase understanding of major public policy issues, and influences public policy through education and advocacy.